Buying a car can be an exciting adventure, and it’s easy to get caught up in the thrill when you think you’ve found the perfect vehicle. Since purchasing a car is such a significant investment, it is important that you do your due diligence to make sure that you don’t end up with a vehicle that already has issues and will have you spending money at the mechanic sooner than you’d like. Fortunately, pre-purchase inspections can help spot issues with a vehicle and are critical for anyone buying a car.
Before you purchase a vehicle, you should know why pre-purchase inspections are important and the five steps you’ll want to follow to receive one.
Why Pre-Purchase Inspections Matter
When it comes time to buy a new car, appearances can be deceiving. You’ve probably heard the saying don’t judge a book by its cover, and the same applies to vehicles. Just because a car looks great on the outside doesn’t mean it doesn’t have issues, and it is important to be as informed as possible about your potential new car before you sign the ownership papers. Learn more about how pre-purchase inspections could help you during the buying process below:
- Hidden Issues: A qualified mechanic will take an in-depth look at the car you are thinking about buying during a pre-purchase inspection. During this inspection, they can uncover any hidden issues that could have gone unnoticed during your test drive. Since worn-out components that are still functioning and other problems can become major problems in the future and potentially cost you thousands of dollars, a pre-purchase inspection can save you lots of money in the long run.
- True Value & Negotiation Power: We’d all like to assume that others have our best interests in mind, but it is a good idea to have a third party assess the car you’re interested in buying to determine its actual value. Sellers could be marking up a car worth far less than they’re asking, and a pre-purchase inspection can let you know what the car is actually worth. With this knowledge, you can potentially negotiate with the seller and get a fair price for what you’re paying.
- Peace of Mind: A pre-purchase inspection can go a long way in giving you peace of mind, as you’ll know you’re making the most informed decision possible when buying a car. After you’re armed with the knowledge you’re getting a fair deal, you can focus on your new car or continue your search if the one you had in mind doesn’t end up working out after the inspection.
Your 5-Step Guide to Getting a Pre-Purchase Vehicle Inspection
While coordinating a pre-purchase inspection may seem daunting when you first start doing your research, it can be easy if you follow a few key steps. As you try to schedule one, review the five steps to getting a pre-purchase inspection below:
Step 1: Research Local Inspection Services
The first thing you’ll want to do is look up what mechanics around you provide inspection services, particularly ones with a good track record for pre-purchase inspections. While you research local mechanics, you’ll want to look at reviews of the shop and check out their website to see what information they have about pre-purchase inspections.
Schedule a Local Inspection
Step 2: Coordinate With the Seller and Schedule In Advance
Once you’ve identified a trustworthy auto shop, you’ll want to go ahead and contact the seller to schedule the inspection. After you discuss when they can bring in their car, you can schedule your pre-purchase inspection in advance at the auto shop.
Step 3: Be Present During the Inspection
It is extremely important that you attend the pre-purchase inspection along with the seller. By attending the inspection, you can speak to the mechanic conducting the inspection face to face right after it’s concluded. This opportunity to talk to the mechanic can help you make a more informed decision about whether the vehicle is worth buying.
Step 4: Review the Inspection Checklist
You should take a look at the inspection checklist in order to make sure that the mechanic is inspecting the vehicle’s exterior, interior, and under-the-hood components. A thorough pre-purchase inspection will also include test drive results and diagnostic checks. If you see the checklist doesn’t include checks of the previously mentioned parts of the vehicle, be sure to bring it up with the shop.
Step 5: Carefully Evaluate the Inspection Report
Once the inspection is finished, go over the report with the mechanic who conducted it to discuss their findings. The report should outline all issues the car has and any potential problems that could arise in the future. Always be sure to bring up any questions you have with the mechanic.
Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Your Pre-Purchase Inspection
If you’re looking to buy a car and need a pre-purchase inspection in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, or the surrounding areas, choose Chapel Hill Tire. When buying a new car, you want the peace of mind that you’re making the correct decision, and we’re here to help you make sure that you’re getting the best deal you possibly can. Before you schedule an appointment, review our promotions to find a great deal on our many services!
Learn more about our inspection services today. When you’re ready to bring your car in, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle Area.
